Mark Gurman reports that Apple is making significant changes to the layout of its physical stores this fallto make room for new home products . The reorganization is part of a broader strategy by Apple to strengthen its presence in the smart home device sector, a market that has seen rapid growth in recent years.
In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman reports that the teams responsible for the store layout are preparing changes to the “Avenues,” the perimeter walls of Apple’s newer stores. These spaces are dedicated to showcasing accessories like the HomePod, Apple TV, AirPods, and Beats, along with third-party accessories. The work includes rearranging sections of the Avenues and adding accessory spaces for upcoming new devices.
See also: Apple Home Hub: Widget Gallery with iPhone Widget Support?
Apple: New upgraded products
Apple is already known to have an upgraded Apple TV and a new HomePod mini ready . Gurman reported in July that both were nearly ready, with faster processors for Siri AI but no major design changes. Rumors point to an A17 Pro or better processor in the new Apple TV , and an S9 series processor , improved sound, and a red finish for the HomePod mini , the current version of which is now over 2,000 days old.
The reorganization of Apple stores is not just a cosmetic refresh. It reflects the company’s strategy to integrate its new technologies and innovations into an environment where customers can experience the capabilities of the products firsthand. The scale of the changes to the stores suggests preparation for the launch of the long-awaited home center with a display, also known as the rumored HomePod with Display or “HomePad.”
Gurman reported last month that the smart home hub will arrive sometime between October and early next year. It's expected to feature a 7-inch square display and will be sold with either a desktop or wall-mounted stand. It's also said to feature an all-new operating system based on tvOS, with Siri AI powering the device.
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The new device is expected to offer a complete smart home experience, combining entertainment and home device management features. Code discovered in macOS Tahoe 26.7 last week suggests that the home screen will use a Widget Gallery, similar to the iPhone's lock screen customization options. It is also believed that the new device's home screen could have similar options for icons, widgets, and clock faces, with widgets from a connected iPhone automatically suggested.
Store redesign
This approach by Apple shows its commitment to integrating smart technologies into every aspect of its users' daily lives. The company will need a dedicated space in its stores where customers can see how the hub works, what its purpose is, and how it fits into the overall home setup. This will allow consumers to better understand the capabilities of the new products and see how they can be integrated into their own lives.
See also: Apple Stores: In-store Apple Watch repair is coming
Overall, the changes to Apple stores and the introduction of new products underscore the company's desire to expand its influence in the smart home. By integrating advanced technologies and providing a comprehensive user experience, Apple continues to lead the way in technology and shape the future of digital life.
